7 Best New Hampshire Towns For A Weekend Trip
Although nearby Maine has rugged outdoor landscapes and Massachusetts offers an abundance of coastal appeal, New Hampshire blends these characteristics and more. From its small towns to the White Mountains, the state offers a varied New England experience. During the fall, the landscape comes alive with foliage, while winter brings snow and opportunities for seasonal activities. Throughout the rest of the year, the state’s natural setting provides sweeping views of the surrounding areas.
While New Hampshire has more than enough to entertain travelers for extended stays, a long trip is not required to enjoy what the state offers. Whether it’s North Conway’s scenic setting or Littleton’s well-known candy shops, these New Hampshire towns provide enough variety and character to fill a weekend getaway and leave visitors eager to return.
North Conway
A gateway to the White Mountains, North Conway is known for outdoor activities like hiking to Diana’s Baths or walking through Whitaker Woods, though there are also quieter options for a relaxed weekend. The Conway Scenic Railroad offers a one-hour valley excursion, along with longer 4 to 5 hour trips through Crawford Notch. These rides provide broad views of the surrounding landscape within a short visit.
Back in town, the setting supports a range of low-key activities. Zeb’s General Store is a long-standing favorite, known for retro candy, New England-made products, and assorted specialty items. Visitors often stop at Frontside Coffee Roasters before continuing to local shops and attractions. Lodging options include White Mountain Hotel & Resort, which offers mountain views along with amenities such as an outdoor pool and spa, a sauna, and a golf course.
Jackson
Home to a strong ski community, Jackson is not solely defined by outdoor recreation. The town features small shops such as White Mountain Puzzles, which offers a wide variety of puzzles, and maintains a quiet, small-town atmosphere suited for a short stay. Jackson is also home to several trails, with Doublehead Trail offering some of the area’s most notable views. This 4.4-mile round-trip hike provides views of Mount Washington on clear days and serves as a backcountry ski trail in winter. Jackson Falls is another well-known site, where a gently cascading waterfall stretches roughly 100 feet and provides a popular spot for picnics and photos.
Covered Bridge No. 51, often referred to as the Honeymoon Bridge, is one of the town’s most recognizable landmarks. First built in 1876, the bridge remains an important part of the town’s visual identity. Back in the village area, Flossie’s General Store offers locally made items, gifts, and collectibles. For lodging, Eagle Mountain House provides a historic setting with mountain views and a wraparound veranda overlooking the golf course.
Meredith
With lakeside views and a walkable downtown, Meredith is best known for its summer activities, though it remains a year-round destination. Nearby Lake Winnipesaukee and Lake Waukewan offer opportunities for boating, swimming, and other recreational activities. Visitors can also take in more of the Lakes Region aboard the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad, which offers a two-hour ride through the area’s landscape and local history.
Closer to town, the Meredith Sculpture Walk runs through downtown, with 33 sculptures placed across sidewalks, parks, and other public spaces. Because the pieces are spread across the town center, the walk can be followed casually without a set route. The Common Man operates four locations in Meredith, Camp, Lago, Lakehouse Grille, and Town Docks, each with its own setting and price range. For overnight stays near downtown, the Meredith Inn is a small bed and breakfast with eight guest rooms.
Peterborough
Visitors looking to take in the Monadnock Region will find no shortage of activities in Peterborough. Considered a creative haven, this New Hampshire small town is filled with classic regional charm that’s offset by a vibrant community. Those looking for a quirky adventure can have fun at Bowling Acres, a bowling alley established in 1962 that features 10 lanes, a small arcade, and a grill. Unlike most bowling alleys, Bowling Acres partakes in candlepin bowling, a New England sport in which the balls are smaller and games last up to three rolls per frame. Known for its antique spots, a visit to Twin Elm Farm is a must. This 1800s farmhouse and barn are a shopper’s dream, with unique furniture, antiques, and accessories.
For a break outdoors, head to Pack Monadnock in Miller State Park, the oldest state park in New Hampshire. It entails a short hike and views of Boston and Mount Washington. Visitors looking to take in some of the local entertainment can visit the Peterborough Players, which offers theater productions inside an 18th-century barn. The historic Cranberry Meadow Farm Inn is the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring, with 80 acres, gardens, a pond, hiking trails, and a chicken coop.
Littleton
Snow or shine, Littleton's small-town character remains consistent throughout the year. One of the town’s most well-known attractions, Chutters Candy Store, draws visitors with its long candy counter and wide selection of sweets. Holding the Guinness World Record for the longest candy counter in the world, the shop stands out as more than a typical candy store. Afterward, visitors often stop by Little Village Toy & Book Shop, a bookstore that also carries toys and appeals to a wide range of ages. Like many New Hampshire towns, Littleton has several bridges, including the Riverwalk Covered Bridge, which was built in 2004.
The Littleton Area Historical Society offers a look into the town’s past through exhibits that range from war memorabilia to vintage toys. For time outdoors, the Kilburn Crags trails provide a short walk that leads to elevated views overlooking the town. Lodging options include the Hampton Inn Littleton.
Exeter
Steeped in American history, Exeter displays its historic legacy with landmarks and attractions that take visitors all the way back to the Revolutionary War. The American Independence Museum displays some of this history through tours, exhibits, and reproductions of important artifacts like one of the original Dunlap Broadsides of the Declaration of Independence. Also housed in this museum is the Folsom Tavern. This historic tavern offers tours that explain how it came to be of importance during the Colonial and Revolutionary periods. Craft beer samples are often offered during special events.
Right on Water Street, the Exeter River runs parallel to the road and frames one of the town’s most walkable stretches. The area includes local shops such as Water Street Bookstore, a long-standing community favorite known for its mix of new and used titles and its role in hosting local events. Nearby, the Exeter Inn operates as a boutique hotel with indoor and outdoor spaces and a traditional New England feel.
Gorham
Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a weekend trip away will be thrilled with the immense opportunities that await in Gorham. Jericho Mountain State Park makes for the perfect playground, with space for ATV, UTV, and snowmobiling. For travelers who prefer to explore nature rather than adventure through it, the Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center hosts guided kayak trips through the calm rivers and lakes that surround the town. The Mount Washington Auto Road also delivers phenomenal views of the White Mountains region from the comfort of your own vehicle.
Back in town, the Gorham Historical Society & Railroad Museum is the best place to walk around and learn more about the town's rich history inside the 1907 former Grand Trunk Railway station. Here, visitors can enjoy railroad engines and cars on display, along with a variety of artifacts and photographs. To complete the weekend getaway, a stay at The Glen House provides a comfortable retreat with mountain views, a heated indoor pool, and easy access to the Mount Washington Auto Road and trails.
Planning a Short Stay in New Hampshire
Whether you're looking to take a time out in nature or want to hit the trails on an ATV, New Hampshire has everything you need for your perfect weekend away. These New Hampshire small towns all share in the traditional New England charm, while each delivers a few unique experiences. From bed and breakfasts in Peterborough to Exeter's sophisticated inns, there's no better place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the week than in New Hampshire's quaint and best small towns.
